Staff Reporter
THE Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA) is representing Namibia at the 49th Administrative Council Meeting of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO), taking place from 17 to 20 November 2025.
Namibia, a member state of ARIPO, is represented by Acting Chief Executive Officer Ainna Kaundu, alongside Frieda Mokotjomela (Chairperson of the ARIPO Human Resources Council), Helena Sakaria, and Romancia Shoonga.
During the election of office bearers for the 2025–2027 term, Namibia was elected as the new Vice Chairperson of the ARIPO Administrative Council — a development seen as a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to advance intellectual property governance and cooperation on the continent.
Further deliberations will continue throughout the session, including discussions on the host country for the 2027 Administrative Council Meeting, which Namibia hopes to secure.
The ARIPO Administrative Council serves as the organisation’s highest governance and policy-making body, comprising heads of intellectual property offices from all member states. Its key responsibilities include approving work plans and budgets, reviewing the Director General’s activity reports, recommending treaty amendments, establishing special funds, and overseeing subsidiary committees.
Photos: Business and Intellectual Property Authority (BIPA)
Over the past year, Namibia has recorded strong performance in IP filings, including:
- 3rd highest number of patent filings (Roland Intellectual Property Consultants)
- Highest number of trademark filings (Cronje & Co)
- Top 10 for utility model filings (Roland Intellectual Property Consultants)
- Top 20 for industrial design filings (Roland Intellectual Property Consultants, ENSafrica Namibia & Cronje & Co)
Namibia’s election to the Vice Chair position further solidifies its growing role as an active contributor to regional intellectual property development and policy leadership.
